Odegaard Set for Spell on the Bench as Havertz Poised to Reclaim Arsenal Midfield Role

The Arsenal midfield pecking order looks set for a reshuffle as Kai Havertz edges closer to match sharpness following his injury spell.

Martin Odegaard will find himself competing for his starting berth rather than holding down an automatic place, with the onus on the captain to reclaim his position through form rather than relying on necessity.

Havertz's return to the fold opens up tactical possibilities that have long intrigued Mikel Arteta. Originally earmarked for a shadow-striker role before his profile proved better suited to a more advanced position, the German international never quite found his feet in that deeper midfield capacity with the squad configuration available at the time. Now, with fresh personnel in place, the manager appears ready to revisit that blueprint.

The prospect of a Rice-Zubimendi-Havertz midfield trio could represent Arsenal's strongest three-man engine room once Havertz regains full match fitness. His link-up play carries greater directness than Odegaard's, and whilst the captain's vision would be missed, the accelerated tempo through transitions could more than compensate. Crucially, the defensive and structural integrity remains intact—something that cannot be said when other midfield alternatives are deployed.

Havertz's movement and willingness to operate as a focal point would complement any attacking forays, particularly if paired with the direct running of Alexander Isak once he settles into his Arsenal role. The added outlet for progressive passing could liberate the midfield from its occasional predictability.

Odegaard remains a valued asset and will have opportunities in rotation, especially as Arsenal navigate the demanding fixture schedule. However, the timing could prove beneficial—allowing the skipper to rebuild his claim through performances during the critical run-in across both league and European competition.

With attacking talent in abundance—Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Nwanko Kanu, and Álex Merino providing depth—Arsenal possess the resources to manage rotation effectively whilst keeping their key players fresh for the business end of the season.

The priority remains keeping Havertz, Isak, Saka, Rice and Zubimendi available for the pivotal matches ahead.